Sam Cozart, a true freshman and the Texas Longhorns' closer, was announced as the 2026 National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Stopper of the Year, cementing his place among the program's most celebrated pitchers.
His season statistics — a 1.65 ERA, 71 strikeouts in 49 innings and nine saves — helped the Longhorns clinch a spot in the College World Series, showcasing a level of dominance rare for a player in his first year.
Award’s Historical Context
The Stopper of the Year award, presented by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, has been claimed by only a handful of pitchers since its inception, and no other collegiate program has produced as many winners as the Longhorns, underscoring the program's historic pitching pedigree.
Cozart's clutch performance in a 6‑5 super‑regional victory over Oregon not only secured the Longhorns' place in the national tournament but also highlighted his ability to deliver under pressure when the team needed it most.
Coached to assume the closer role midway through the campaign, Cozart finished the year with a perfect 6‑0 record before the transition, a testament to his rapid adaptation and the confidence placed in him by the coaching staff.